The 2025 NZ Police Association Member Survey has provided a wealth of insights into how members are feeling across a range of issues. 

In October, Police News revealed the most concerning finding was that 54% of members identified mental health as a major cultural issue. But for the association itself, there was a sobering message delivered in a drop in member satisfaction with the organisation. From 2017 to 2023’s survey, satisfaction levels were relatively stable at 72% to 77%. This year, it dropped to 59%. 

Constabulary members were the most critical, with satisfaction falling from 73% in 2023 to 56% this year. Among employees, satisfaction declined from 76% to 68%, and for authorised officers, from 70% to 60%.

While the survey did not ask for the reasons behind members’ dissatisfaction, delegates at October’s  Police Association annual conference all agreed that the 2024 constabulary pay round was the primary cause. National office shares this view, new association president Steve Watt says, and it has already been acknowledged that the outcome, the delays and the communication around the process left many members feeling disappointed.

The board and management say they are not shying away from the survey results and acknowledge that changes are needed in how pay rounds are conducted, he says. 

“While much of the delay was outside our control – due to government agencies such as the Public Service Commission and Treasury, as well as a change in government – we have advised Police that, going forward, we will seek to move to final offer arbitration within weeks, not months, if a settlement cannot be reached,” Steve says.

Although delays such as those in last year’s pay round are unusual in the policing context, they are not without precedent. Current negotiations involving nurses and teachers show that significant delays can and do occur.

Pay outcomes always vary depending on the broader context, including attrition (currently low for Police) and recruitment (currently challenging). However, this year’s Remuneration Design Group project represents the best opportunity in years for meaningful change in Police pay structures, Steve says. “The association will continue to provide updates as that project gains momentum.”

In terms of communication, the key issue was the association’s change to its final offer position, which caught many members by surprise. A late change has been made in every final offer arbitration to date. However, it became clear last year that members didn’t fully understand the process and that the association’s FAQs provided did not adequately address their concerns.

In the recent Police Employee negotiations, the association trialled a series of webinars to communicate with members. The feedback was very positive and clearly improved understanding, Steve says. This is one of several improvements planned. To support a change in approach, Erin Polaczuk, who brings extensive experience in bargaining and campaigning, has been appointed as the new employment relations manager. 

“The association is committed to a refreshed approach – one that prioritises rebuilding members’ trust and confidence,” Steve says. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to secure the best possible results for members. What will change is how we ensure transparency and engagement every step of the way.”